Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association (FFVA) recently presented Kim Bowman its 2026 Researcher of the Year Award.
For more than 30 years, Bowman has led citrus rootstock research at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Horticultural Research Laboratory in Fort Pierce, Florida. He has worked to develop innovative solutions to improve citrus production and help growers address challenges such as HLB.
His work includes the development of 15 citrus rootstocks that have been adopted by growers in Florida and around the world. Over the past decade, more than 38% of all citrus trees propagated in Florida have utilized HLB-tolerant ‘US’ rootstocks developed through Bowman’s breeding program. In 2025 alone, approximately 42% of new citrus propagations were produced on those rootstocks.
Bowman pioneered the USDA’s SuperSour rootstock breeding strategy, which combines large-scale field trials and genomic selection to accelerate development of disease-tolerant rootstocks. The program has helped growers improve productivity, profitability and long-term grove viability.
“At Dundee Citrus Growers Association, we have seen firsthand the tremendous value of Dr. Bowman’s work,” said Steven Callaham, CEO of Dundee Citrus Growers Association and immediate past chair of FFVA. “The rootstocks he developed have helped growers address some of the most significant challenges facing citrus production today and have been instrumental in the success of our CUPS (citrus under protective screen) program. His commitment to innovation, collaboration and practical solutions has greatly benefited our industry and will continue shaping the future of Florida citrus.”
In nomination letters, colleagues and growers credit Bowman for his collaborative approach and commitment to ensuring research findings translate into practical applications.
The award was presented during FFVA’s 82nd annual convention at The Ritz-Carlton in Naples. The Researcher of the Year Award is given to deserving individuals who have dedicated themselves and their work to improving Florida agriculture.
Source: FFVA
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